Combination free foot flaps for digit reconstruction: A retrospective analysis of 37 cases

Combination foot flaps for digit reconstruction was previously introduced by our group as an alternative method for toe-to-hand transfer. The aim of this study was to analyze our experience with the combination foot flaps and to present the surgical refinements that were introduced. A prospective study was conducted including all combination foot flaps performed at our hospital since September 2009. Surgical refinements that were introduced during this study included island flap for repair of toenail donor site and the use of Z-plasty. The median operation duration was 6.7 hours (range 3.5-13 h). Among 74 flaps, partial necrosis occurred in three flaps (4.1%); two palmar flaps (2.7%) were bulky. Among 37 cases of reconstructed digits, contracture of the first web occurred in one case (1.4%). All the patients were able to walk well and did not complain of any pain or cold intolerance. Wound dehiscence of donor site was observed in three patients (8.1%). Toenail deformity occurred in one case (2.7%). The combination foot flap is a reliable option for digit reconstruction with minimal donor site complications.